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Chapter 3 - Historical and Global Perspectives in Lifestyle Medicine

from Section 1 - An Introduction

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 May 2025

By
Rob Lawson  and
Ellen Fallows
Edited by
Richard Pinder ,
Christopher-James Harvey  and
Ellen Fallows
Richard Pinder
Affiliation:
Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, London
Christopher-James Harvey
Affiliation:
Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, London
Ellen Fallows
Affiliation:
British Society of Lifestyle Medicine
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Summary

Modern Lifestyle Medicine can trace its roots from ancient practices to modern applications. Ancient systems, including Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine emphasised nutrition, sleep, and stress management, while Greco-Roman and Middle Eastern traditions also recognised the importance of lifestyle in health. The term ‘Lifestyle Medicine’ emerged in the late twentieth century, reflecting a shift towards addressing long-term conditions through lifestyle changes rather than pharmaceuticals. There are challenges on multiple fronts. Firstly, the question of whether research bias is favouring pharmaceutical and surgical interventions over lifestyle changes. Secondly, socio-economic factors exacerbate health inequities, impacting the effectiveness of Lifestyle Medicine. Thirdly, there are education gaps, with healthcare workers lacking knowledge and skills for lifestyle interventions. Fourthly, providers face time constraints and financial incentives that prioritise medications or surgery. Lastly, regulatory issues arise, necessitating quality education and evidence-based practices to distinguish Lifestyle Medicine from alternative approaches.

Keywords

Lifestyle MedicineHistorical perspectivesGlobal communitiesHealth inequalitiesPatient experiencePlanetary healthMedical educationHealthcare policySocial determinantsBehaviour changeResearch bias
Type
Chapter
Information
Essential Lifestyle Medicine , pp. 23 - 32
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2025

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